Chris Wade is fifth New York state wrestling champion to fight in UFC

Islip's Chris Wade grapples with North Babylon's George Estevez in their 140-pound quarterfinal match at the Suffolk County championships on Feb. 20, 2005. Wade won by decision, 3-0. Photo Credit: Joseph D. Sullivan

And when Wade enters the octagon inside Sleep Train Arena in Sacramento, California, to fight Cain Carrizosa at UFC 177 on Saturday, he will become the fourth active UFC fighter to have won a New York State wrestling title.

A year after losing in the state semifinals, Villante won the state title at 215 pounds. He decision end Zack Zerniak (Franklin Academy), 18-9, in the semifinals, then won a 7-5 decision over Mike Patterson (Wayne).

2004: Matthew Riddle, Saratoga Springs High School

Riddle pinned Huntington junior Jack Sullivan at 6:49 in overtime to win the 189-pound state title.